Why Does My Dog React Aggressively toward other dogs?
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you and your dog are attacked by another dog? A dog that reacts aggressively toward other dogs?
I have, and it’s very uncomfortable. It happened to me and Mojo today, and that’s why I felt compelled to write about dogs that react aggressively toward other dogs.
Is a Dog That Reacts Aggressively Toward Other Dogs Undisciplined?
Do you think so? I don’t. I think we sometimes put these lovely dogs in situations they can’t handle or overcome. As a result, their last resort becomes defending themselves.
I don’t believe it’s about the dog being undisciplined. The dog is doing its best in a world it doesn’t fully understand, and it’s our job to take care of them and guide them so they don’t end up in situations where their only choice is to react aggressively.
Is a Dog That Reacts Aggressively Toward Other Dogs “Normal”?
Yes, actually. It’s a small dog (regardless of size) that has a lot of stress and reacts aggressively because there’s no other option. It’s a little dog tasked with protecting its pack, and it fulfills this duty with its life on the line.
A dog that reacts aggressively often has other behavioral issues, such as:
– Separation anxiety
– Not eating its food
– Constantly seeking attention
– Pulling on the leash or refusing to walk and/or walking behind you
– Greeting guests aggressively or being very reserved
– Following you everywhere in the house
– Reacting aggressively toward people
There may be more symptoms, but often you’ll see a connection between a dog that reacts aggressively and other problematic behaviors.
The Secret – Your Dog Is Not Ready for the Big World
So, what does this mean? If your dog is reacting aggressively toward other dogs, it means you’re not ready to be out there with other dogs yet.
I know it sounds a bit crazy, but do you enjoy being around people when you’re stressed out, have no control, and feel like everyone is getting too close and not respecting your personal space? No, right?
A Dog That Reacts Aggressively Doesn’t Enjoy Walks
But I have to exercise my dog, right? Otherwise, it’ll get bored and under-stimulated? But can you run if you’re stressed? Does it help you relax? I don’t think so. And a dog that’s already stressed (which it will be if it reacts aggressively toward other dogs) doesn’t enjoy a walk.
It’s just stress on top of stress – not a good combination.
Build Trust and Respect in Your Relationship with Your Dog
Back to the secret – don’t go for a walk with your dog. Create secure boundaries at home, in the yard, or at a nearby patch of grass if you live in an apartment. Once you’re both comfortable in these safe spaces and you’ve communicated that you’ll handle any dangers and encounters on walks, then you can start with short walks.
This isn’t a quick fix, but you’ll have a dog that trusts and respects you, and that can’t be measured in time or money.
Would you like to learn more about how to work with your dog that reacts aggressively and how to create safe boundaries?